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A visit to 'God's own country' will now be all the more exciting for travellers.

In its bid to promote a niche product, Kerala Tourism has now come up with a river cruise for holidayers to further explore the northern districts of the state. Christened 'Malanadu Cruise', this new venture connects eight rivers and backwaters of Kannur and Kasargod district, thereby encompassing the socio-cultural attractions of North Malabar.

This Rs 400 crore project is aimed at showcasing the untapped tourism potential from the upcoming Kannur International Airport to Bekal. 11 tourism themes have been chalked out for the cruise around Chandragiri, Tejaswani, Perumba, Kuppam, Valapattnam and the backwaters, among others. The themes comprise Akshagana, River bathing and Water sports, Coastal Village, Handicraft, Mangrove, Theyyam, Malabari (Muthappan), Birds and Agri Cruise, Pazhassi Raja and Martial Arts.

The longest cruise route (37 km), is from Munambukadavu to Valapattanam (Malabari cuisine cruise) and the Birds and agri-cruise from Munderikadavu to Valapattanam, both along the Valapattanam river. The shortest route (15 km) is from the Thekkil bridge to Thalangara along the Chandragiri tiver (Yakshagana cruise) and Martial arts cruise from Peringathur to Mahe along the Mahe river.

The main thrust of the new novel project is to expose tourists to the rich tradition, culture and cuisine, besides the scenic landscape, that all add to the rustic beauty of Kerala. The 270 km cruise-route is also aimed at generating employment for local people while promoting the local handicrafts and handloom.

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